TAFE threat inspires research

TAFE teacher Antoinette Abboud will use this year’s Eric Pearson Study Grant to identify campaigning opportunities around the State Government’s Smart and Skilled agenda.

Her study will investigate how unionists, educators and the communities can build an effective campaign against the Smart and Skilled threat to TAFE colleges.

Antoinette will draw lessons from US and UK experiences of privatisation to identify strategies and tactics that will be useful in NSW and Australia.

The Eric Pearson Study Grant is awarded annually to a Federation member to study an issue of relevance and benefit to the union. The criteria for assessing applications are based on the contribution the study can make to the knowledge and understanding of members with respect to relevant industrial and professional issues. The award provides for travel, accommodation and expenses associated with the study.